Beetham's Corn & Bunion Plaster

It’s interesting that this advert uses the phrase “worth a guinea a box.” This slogan was plastered everywhere in the second half of the 19th century, advertising the famous Beecham’s Pills. Mr Beetham wasn’t necessarily copying his near-namesake, however. The phrase was around before Thomas Beecham adopted it in 1859, so the satisfied customer who is supposed to have coined it could easily have picked it up from other adverts. Dr Walter De Roos was using it for his Renal Pills as early as 1851, and it also appeared in Kaye’s Wordsell’s Pills ads during the 1850s.

BEETHAM’S CORN & BUNION PLASTER,the most wonderful production of the age. It
astonishes and delights all who use it. However
long you may have been tormented almost instant
relief will be experienced. It also reduces the en
largement of the great toe joints. During the last
fifteen years nearly 20 000 persons have acknow
ledged its efficacy, many of whom have pronounced
it to be worth a guinea a box. Sold in packets 1s
Boxes 2s 6d, equal to three packets 4s 6d
equal to six packets, sent free for 11, 34 and 58
postage stamps by the proprietors BEETHAM & CO
Chemists to the Royal Family, Cheltenham, and by
their Agents Mr D STEEL, Chemist, 29 Hanover
Street Edinburgh Glasgow MURDOCH BROTHERS

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For centuries, people have sought new ways of overcoming illness and pain. Numerous practitioners - some more reputable and competent than others - have responded with treatments and advice. The Quack Doctor focuses on those around the fringes of the medical profession - the patent remedy vendors, entrepreneurs and even downright fraudsters who have always made the most of people's desire to be well.
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